The Truth about Introverts

When someone is happy, angry, sad, joyful, loving and all the feelings you can possibly imagine, there is a story etched in the expression of their face. We feel differently to everyone. Everyone sees the world through their own pair of eyes and have different experiences during a day in a life of ………….. (insert own name).

Growing up in a tough situation as a child can make you toughen up. Whether it is financial, cultural, social, or psychological. When I was a young girl, I did not speak a word in kindergarten and primary school for a long enough time, that the teachers and student thought I was a mute. Now first thing to note was I was not shy at first but rather, I lacked English Vocabulary (speaking Chinese at home). The first time I spoke (or rather, sang) at school was when I sang in the school play as a snail, which is a moment I’ll never forget. Later moving into primary and early college, I was extremely and painfully shy. It was hard to express what I really felt at the best of times and I found people would take advantage of introverted people. First thing to note is that the word introvert doesn’t necessarily mean the person is shy. Second thing to note is that introverted people should not be taken advantage of nor should anyone. Being introverted means a person who prefers to be in a more calm and peaceful environment rather than constant social environments.

The title is ‘The truth about introverts’, but just to note that this all comes completely from my own perspective of the ‘truth’.

1) As an introverted person I feel that it is much more pleasant and comfortable to talk about intellectual and deeper things rather than things on the surface. I like to understand what a person is really like and their views on certain things in life.

2) It is easier to talk one on one with people rather than in a group. You are able to use your time and energy to really get to know someone rather than listening to a group talk. I find it harder to contribute in a social group and often my views are not expressed.

3) I think very deeply about certain things. It can be unhealthy to over think, but analyzing things can come in handy as a habit, and you tend to think before you speak.

4) Socialising takes energy. An exception is made to those who you feel close to, however talking to people on a non personal level can take energy because you want to look engaged rather than too relaxed.

5) Meeting strangers makes you a little nervous but you are yourself regardless. You don’t want to give someone the wrong impression of yourself.

6) Talking loudly is not my forte. I naturally like to keep it on the down low because it calms me down.

7) Thoughts and feelings come naturally. I am naturally quite a sensitive person and I find it helps to be understanding of other peoples feelings too.

8) Privacy is important. Being completely myself with close people is natural. Writing is my creative outlet. Playing music and drawing expresses emotions. Deep observor and enjoy learning new things. Taking long walks by myself and being in a peaceful space.

“In a conversation with someone sharing gossip, the introvert’s eyes glaze over and his brow furrows as he tries to comprehend how this conversation could interest anyone. This is not because the introvert is morally superior—he just doesn’t get it. As we’ve discussed, introverts are energized and excited by ideas. Simply talking about people, what they do and who they know, is noise for the introvert. He’ll be looking between the lines for some meaning, and this can be hard work! Before long, he’ll be looking for a way out of the conversation.”
― Laurie A. Helgoe, Introvert Power: Why Your Inner Life Is Your Hidden Strength